Real-time measurement of grid connected solar panels based on wireless sensors network

Abstract

The paper presents real-time measurement of grid connected photovoltaic system using Zigbee sensors networks. The measurements were performed using sensors that chosen based on their simplicity and lower price. The weather parameters were measured using OPT101 photodiode for irradiance sensors and DHT22 for temperature and humidity sensors. While low cost ACS 712 5A current sensor and Arduino voltage sensor modules were used to measure PV output current and voltage. The 1.25 kWp grid connected PV system were used to test the real-time measurement system. The data received exactly same as sensed data that sent from remote area with time delay around 3 to 4 seconds. The solar panels in average have produced power twelve hours per day for clear sky, however for raining, overcast and cloud covered sky, PV power decreased and grid disconnected earlier before sunset and the PV power curve show an irregular profile. Experimental results demonstrate that real-time PV data can be recorded using Zigbee sensors network. This information can be used as a further reference for performance and energy saving analysis of PV system installed in West Sumatera.